The upcoming amendments place a strong emphasis on adapting regulations to the evolving needs of the marine byproduct recycling industry. (Image courtesy of the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries)
SEOUL, Dec. 1 (Korea Bizwire) – In a bid to invigorate the recycling industry for marine byproducts, the South Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries has announced proposed amendments to the regulations governing the recycling of marine byproducts. The amendments aim to address practical aspects and enhance the efficacy of regulations enacted in July of last year.
Under current regulations, byproducts arising incidentally during the production and processing of seafood beyond the primary yield are classified as marine byproducts. This includes the shells of six types of shellfish: oysters, clams, abalone, scallops, mussels, and snails.
Aligned with this law, recycling enterprises are repurposing the shells of these six shellfish into 19 different categories of products, including cosmetics and raw materials for health supplements.
The upcoming amendments place a strong emphasis on adapting regulations to the evolving needs of the marine byproduct recycling industry. One significant change is the expansion of the types of marine byproducts that can be recycled. With the widespread adoption of technologies allowing the reuse of clam shells as soil stabilizers and coverings, the amendments incorporate approval for this type of processing, providing systematic support for the expansion of marine byproduct recycling.
Additionally, the amendments ease licensing requirements for small-scale marine byproduct recycling enterprises, allowing them more flexibility in their operations. Furthermore, it accommodates industry concerns by exempting companies exclusively engaged in transporting marine byproducts from the obligation to have storage facilities, streamlining their operations.
This forward-looking initiative reflects South Korea’s commitment to fostering sustainable practices in the fishing industry and leveraging its marine resources efficiently. The proposed amendments are poised to not only stimulate the marine byproduct recycling sector but also contribute to the broader goals of environmental conservation and resource optimization.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
